MPG at Higher Altitudes

[bergmen]

I have taken my 2014A up into the Sierras on a few occasions and I have measured better gas mileage at altitude than around the lower elevations (from around 600 feet MSL to 6,000-7,000 feet). MSL = Mean Sea Level.

I ride in the same manner in both locals and I get 42-44mpg (measured with trip meter and gallons at fill up) but up to 48mpg at altitude. This is not a one-time fluke but consistent at the two altitudes. The old carburetor equipped vehicles (both motorcycle and car/truck) always got worse mileage since the systems were not altitude compensating.

Does anyone else measure better mileage at higher altitudes?

Dan

 

[ionbeam]

Should get better mileage. Less air means you need less fuel to maintain the correct fuel/air ratio and in return you get less engine power. Under most circumstances you will notice the fuel consumption improvement more than the power loss.

 

[Ignacio]

Does anyone else measure better mileage at higher altitudes?

Yes, discussed in this thread and many NEPRT-worthy times over the years.

Let's not start another on the subject of fuel efficiency.

Thanks.

 

[bergmen]

10-4, you can nuke this if you want...

Dan

 

[Bugnatr]

Go ride Colorado's high country(above 8,000) mileage jumps above 50mpg.

 

[Redfish Hunter]

I think it is due to a combination of the computer "leaning out" the fuel mixture and the fact that the bike slips more easily through the less dense air. If I had to guess, I would say the leaner fuel mixture is the dominant factor.

Yes, it is real. Yes, it does happen. It happens with the FJR, it happens with automobiles as well. I saw 56 MPG with the FJR in Utah and Colorado. Pop's 2014 GMC got 2+MPG better at altitude than it does at sea level.

 

[art miller]

I've ridden my 2014ES thru the Sierras and Rockies and paid no attention to the MPG. I have however found I am getting an overall average of 47.6 MPG consistently. That is about the same as I got on my 07.